Aquatic Stairs

The present disclosure generally relates to marine equipment, and more particularly relates to stairs for aquatic environments.

Marine environments present unique challenges to infrastructure, particularly when it comes to providing safe and reliable access between land and water. Aquatic stairs, serving as critical conduits in this regard, are subject to a range of environmental stresses, including tidal fluctuations, waterborne debris, and the corrosive effects of saltwater. The traditional approach to marine access has largely revolved around fixed stair systems, which, while providing a stable means of access, suffer from several drawbacks, primarily related to their static nature. Fixed stairs are constantly exposed to water, making them susceptible to damage from ice formation in colder climates and biofouling in warmer regions, which can compromise safety and longevity.

The concept of adjustable or movable aquatic stairs is not new; however, existing solutions often involve manual adjustment mechanisms that require significant physical effort and do not offer the ease of use necessary for wide adoption. Electrically or mechanically actuated systems have been developed but tend to be complex, expensive, and require substantial maintenance.

In light of these challenges, there exists a need for an innovative marine stair system that combines the stability and reliability of fixed stairs with the adaptability of movable systems. Such a system would ideally offer consistent access while minimizing the risk of damage from environmental exposure. Moreover, a design that emphasizes simplicity, durability, and low maintenance would address many of the shortcomings associated with current solutions, making safe and convenient marine access more accessible to a broader range of users and applications.

Others have attempted to address the challenges associated with marine access systems, as evidenced by various patents and applications in the field. For instance, the OPACMARE patent, identified as U.S. Pat. No. 11,608,143, introduces a movable platform assembly for boats, featuring a design centered on horizontal translation mechanisms for extending and retracting platforms. The system employs rotatable arms and slidable sliders for extending and retracting the platform. However, this design primarily caters to horizontal adjustments and does not directly address the challenges posed by vertical adjustments necessary for combating environmental impacts like ice formation or biofouling.

Hence, there exists a need for an innovative marine access system that adeptly adjusts to fluctuating water levels, mitigating the challenges posed by environmental conditions such as ice formation and biofouling, while ensuring safe, reliable, and user-friendly access to aquatic environments.

In accordance with one aspect of the disclosure, aquatic stairs for marine environments are disclosed. The aquatic stairs comprise: a staircase; and an aquatic stair system for elevating a staircase from a body of water. The aquatic stair system includes: a hinge mechanism for attaching the staircase to a support structure; and an actuator operatively connected to the staircase for transitioning the staircase between submerged and elevated positions.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, an aquatic stair system for transitioning a staircase between elevated and submerged positions relative to a body of water is disclosed. The aquatic stair system comprises: an actuator mounted to a support structure, wherein the actuator is capable of extending and retracting to adjust the orientation of the staircase; a hinge mechanism attached to the support structure and operatively connected to the staircase, facilitating pivotal movement of the staircase in response to the actuation; a control unit configured to command the actuator based on desired staircase orientation.

In accordance with another aspect of the disclosure, a method for adjusting a position of aquatic stairs relative to a body of water is disclosed. The method comprises: providing the aquatic stairs with a hinge mechanism at a first end of a staircase, the hinge mechanism is pivotably mounted to a support structure, and providing an actuator mounted on an anchor and connected to the staircase; activating an actuator connected to the staircase; pivoting the staircase using a hinge mechanism; and controlling the actuator based on desired staircase orientation.

These and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will be better understood upon reading the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

The figures depict one embodiment of the presented invention for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein.

Referring now to the drawings, and with specific reference to the depicted example, aquatic stairsare displayed, illustrated as an exemplary means of facilitating access between aquatic and terrestrial environments. Aquatic stairsare essential in various settings, notably residential docks or commercial marinas, where a robust and reliable transition between land and water is paramount. While the following detailed description focuses primarily on the aquatic stairsin the context of aquatic environments, it should be appreciated that the principles and mechanisms discussed herein are applicable to similar structures designed for different environments and purposes, such as riverbank stairs, boat launch stairs, boat launches, swimming platforms, waterfront gangways, and other specialized access solutions in both marine and freshwater settings.

Referring now to, a schematic view of the aquatic stairsis illustrated, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The aquatic stairsare structured to facilitate access with and/or within aquatic environments. The aquatic stairsare generally affixed to a support structure, which provides the necessary support and stability for the aquatic stairs. Attached to this support structureis an anchor, acting as a mounting surface for other operational components to ensure their stability and functionality for the aquatic stairs. The aquatic stairsincludes a staircase, comprised of a series of stairs. The series of stairsare designed to provide safe passage from one surface to another surface into water.

An actuatorconnected to the aquatic stairsis mounted onto the anchor. The actuatoris responsible for the movement of the staircase, allowing it to transition between submerged and elevated positions as required by environmental conditions or user needs. The actuatoris attached to the anchorvia an actuator bracket, which secures the actuatorin place and ensures correct alignment for its operation. Connected to the staircaseis a hinge mechanismfastened to the support structure, enabling the pivotal movement necessary for adjusting the orientation of the aquatic stairsabove or submerged relative to a water line. This hinge mechanismallows for the staircaseto be positioned according to user preferences or environmental requirements, such as varying lake bottoms.

Referring now to, the aquatic stairsare shown in a lifted orientation, demonstrating the system's capability for elevation. The actuatoractivates to elevate the staircaseabove the water line, serving to protect the aquatic stairsfrom environmental factors, such as algae growth, and to adapt access for users. The hinge mechanismfacilitates this transition, ensuring the staircasecan be efficiently positioned. To aid in user safety, a railingis affixed to the staircase, offering support and stability for users navigating the staircase. A first endof the aquatic stairsis attached to the support structureand a second endis configured to submerge below the water lineor engage a lake bottom.

Referring now to, a schematic close-up view of the actuatorconnected to the support structureand the aquatic stairsofis detailed, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The actuatoris illustrated with an actuator cylinder, responsible for generating the linear motion required for the operation of the aquatic stairs. Within the actuator cylinderoperates an actuator rod, extending and retracting to facilitate the movement of the staircasebetween elevated and submerged positions.

At the first endof the aquatic stairs, a female bracketis affixed, serving as part of the hinge mechanismthat connects the staircaseto the support structure. This female bracketis configured to interlock with a male bracket, which in turn is connected to the support structure, establishing a pivotal junction that supports the rotational movement of the staircaseof the aquatic stairs.

An actuator sensormay be incorporated into the actuatorto monitor the position of the actuator rod, providing real-time data on the orientation of the aquatic stairs. The actuator sensorsupports ensuring precise control over the positioning of the staircase, enabling adjustments to be made with accuracy.

Supporting the actuator's connection to the anchoron the support structureis a first actuator pivot bracket. The first actuator pivot bracketallows the actuator cylinderto pivot from the anchorpoint, accommodating the changing angles of the staircaseas they move between positions. This pivoting action is essential for maintaining alignment and ensuring smooth operation.

Supporting the actuator's connection to the staircaseis a second actuator pivot bracket. The second actuator pivot bracketallows the actuator cylinderto pivot, accommodating the changing angles of the staircaseas they move between positions. This pivoting action is essential for maintaining alignment and ensuring smooth operation. Additionally, an actuator-stair bracketsecures the actuator rodto the underside of the aquatic stairsby fastening the second actuator pivot bracketto the actuator-stair bracket. The second actuator pivot bracketis shown facilitating the pivotal connection to the underside of the staircase, accommodating the actuator's movement and the changing angles as the staircasetransitions between positions. The actuator-stair bracket, securing the actuator rodto the staircase, ensures the effective transfer of force from the actuator, enabling the lifting and lowering of the staircase. Additionally, a power-stairs bracketis provided to connect the anchorto the support structure.

Referring now to, a perspective rear view of the actuatorconnected to the support structureand the aquatic stairsfromis provided, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The actuator cylindermounted on the anchor, visible in this rear perspective, serves as the primary component responsible for generating the linear motion necessary for adjusting the position of the aquatic stairs. Housed within the actuator cylinder, the actuator rodis shown in a state of extension or retraction, influencing the elevation or lowering of the aquatic stairs.

The actuator sensormay be provided on the actuator, strategically placed to monitor the displacement of the actuator rod. This sensor provides crucial data regarding the current position of the aquatic stairs, enabling precise adjustments to their orientation. The inclusion of the actuator sensorexemplifies the system's capability for detailed monitoring and control, ensuring that the aquatic stairscan be positioned with high accuracy.

Referring now to, a perspective side view of the actuatorconnected to the support structureand the aquatic stairsfromis presented, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The actuator rodis depicted in a state of extension, illustrating its function in elevating or lowering the staircasein response to control inputs. The actuatoris anchored securely at one end to the anchor, which is integrated with the support structure. This anchorage provides a stable and robust foundation for the actuator's operation, ensuring the delivery of consistent force for the movement of the staircase.

The actuatoris mounted at one end to the anchor, which is affixed to the support structure, providing a stable base for the actuator's operations. This mounting ensures that the actuatoris securely positioned to apply the necessary force for adjusting the staircase.

On the opposite end from where the actuatormounts to the anchor, the second actuator pivot bracketconnects the actuatorto the underside of the staircaseby further connection to the actuator-stair bracket. This configuration allows for the pivotal movement of the actuatorin relation to the staircase, accommodating the varying angles as the staircasetransitions between different orientations. The second actuator pivot bracketenables flexibility, ensuring that the actuatorcan maintain a linear motion when lifting or lowering the staircasewhile maintaining a secure connection. The actuator-stair bracket, in conjunction with the second actuator pivot bracket, secures the actuator rodto the aquatic stairs, facilitating the effective transfer of mechanical force necessary for the movement of the staircase.

Referring now to, a block diagram of an aquatic stair systemis shown, illustrating the system designed for controlling the aquatic stairsof, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. A control unitis provided in direct communication with the actuatorand the actuator sensor. The control unitprocesses data received from the actuator sensor, which monitors the position of the actuator rod. This data allows the control unitto determine the current orientation of the aquatic stairsand make necessary adjustments through the actuator. The control unitutilizes measurements such as the length of the actuator rodextension or retraction to gauge the positioning of the staircaseaccurately.

An operator interfaceprovides a user-accessible platform for manually controlling the operation of the aquatic stairs. This interface allows users to input desired positions for the staircase, which the control unitthen executes using the Actuator. The operator interfaceis designed for intuitive use, enabling straightforward adjustments to the orientation of the staircase.

Additionally, the aquatic stair systemmay further include a mobile remotethat communicates wirelessly with the control unit, allowing users to adjust the position of the staircasefrom a distance, adding a layer of convenience to the operation of the aquatic stairs. The mobile remotemay be a phone, or other device, as generally known in the arts.

The control unitin the aquatic stair systemmay regulate mechanisms associated with adjusting the aquatic stairs. These mechanisms might include, but are not limited to, actuation systems for raising and lowering the staircase, hinge systems for pivotal movement, sensor systems for position feedback, and safety mechanisms to prevent damage or injury, as generally known in the arts. These systems can encompass a variety of hydraulic, mechanical, electronic, and software-based components, which the control unitcan communicate with and control, as generally known in the arts. The mobile remotecould be utilized to interact with the control unit, possibly through a wireless network, to manage the operation of these mechanisms and ensure the aquatic stairsare adjusted to any angled degree or orientation, safely and efficiently according to the user's needs.

The aquatic stair systemprovides an automated framework for managing the aquatic stairs, leveraging advanced control mechanisms and precise operations of the actuatorto ensure the staircasecan be positioned effectively to meet user needs and adapt to environmental conditions. The integration of the control unitwith the actuator, actuator sensor, operator interface, and mobile remoteillustrates a comprehensive approach to controlling the aquatic stairs, ensuring their functionality and accessibility in aquatic environments.

Incorporated within the aquatic stair systemis a power unit, which may be constituted by a battery, configured to power the control unitand operator interface. The operator interfacemay be a switch to actuate the actuatorand facilitate the positional adjustment of staircase. Additionally, the power unitmay be augmented by a solar panel, effectively harnessing solar energy to supplement or recharge the battery, thereby promoting energy efficiency and sustainability. The assembly of power unit, optionally in conjunction with solar panel, is strategically mounted on staircase.

Referring now to, a perspective view of the female bracket, a part of the hinge mechanism, is presented, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This bracket incorporates both a first leafand a second leaf, designed to offer not only structural support but also to enable the pivotal movement essential for the operation of the aquatic stairs. The integration of a receiving slotwithin the female bracketis configured to accommodate the male bracket, facilitating a secure yet flexible connection. Additionally, the presence of a plurality of female slotsallows for the precise placement of fasteners, securing the bracket firmly to the first endof the aquatic stairsand ensuring stability and proper alignment within the hinge mechanismduring the lifting and lowering process of the aquatic stairs.

Referring now to, a perspective rear view of the male bracketof the hinge mechanismis depicted, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This bracket is characterized by an L-shaped structure, formed by the first foiland the second foil, which is essential for providing a strong mounting point to the support structureand ensuring an even load distribution. The male bracketis equipped with a plurality of male slotsfor the insertion of fasteners, which facilitate its secure attachment to the support structure. Additionally, the arrangement of mounting slotson the male bracketis key to its engagement with the female bracket, enabling the hinge mechanismto support the rotational movement of the aquatic stairsas they adjust between positions.

Referring now to, the assembly of the hinge mechanismconnected to the support structureis depicted, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This view highlights the dynamic interaction between the female bracketand the male bracket, illustrating how the female bracketis securely fastened to the male bracketusing a series of first fasteners. These fasteners engage the male slots, providing a stable base for the hinge mechanism. Furthermore, the connection between the female bracketand the aquatic stairsis reinforced by second fasteners, which thread through the female slots, ensuring the stability and functionality of the hinge mechanismas it facilitates the aquatic stairsin transitioning between their various orientations.

Referring now to, the top view and side view of the hinge mechanismis depicted, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The arrangement highlights how the female bracket's first leafand second leafalign with the male bracket's first foiland second foil, ensuring a robust connection that supports the aquatic stairs′pivotal movement. This assembly facilitates the hinge mechanismin providing the rotational movement necessary for the aquatic stairsas they are raised and lowered, adapting to the varying requirements of users and the environment. The male bracketmay be securely fastened to the support structurevia plurality of frame fasteners.

Referring now to, a perspective front view of the hinge mechanismin a semi-exploded configuration is depicted, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This view illustrates how the components of the hinge mechanism, specifically the female bracketand the male bracket, are designed to interact with one another. The first leafand the second leafof the female bracketare shown in relation to the receiving slot, prepared to engage with the male bracket. The male bracket, comprising the first foiland the second foil, demonstrates the L-shape configuration of its design, in alignment with the receiving slotof the female bracket. This semi-exploded view illustrates the assembly process and the interlocking mechanism that facilitates the pivotal movement necessary for the operation of the aquatic stairs.

Referring now toand. Ina perspective top view of hinge mechanismis illustrated, depicting its integral role in connecting aquatic stairsofto support structure. In, a schematic side view is presented of hinge mechanismas it adjoins aquatic stairsofto support structure, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, hinge mechanismis shown in its operational state, affixed to support structure. The top view offers insight into the precise arrangement of components comprising hinge mechanism, including the placement of fasteners and articulation points that enable pivotal movement at the first end. This configuration is designed to support the functional demands placed upon aquatic stairs, ensuring a seamless pivotal integration with support structure. The side view further illustrates the means by which hinge mechanismfacilitates the pivotal movement of aquatic stairsrelative to support structureand the first end.

is a perspective top view of the support structurein conjunction with aquatic stairsas depicted in, placing emphasis on actuatorin accordance with an embodiment of this disclosure. In this embodiment, actuatoris strategically positioned to interface with the staircase, providing the necessary mechanical force to transition the staircasebetween elevated or raised positions and access or submerged lowered positions. The support structureis a pier, as generally known in the arts. The actuatormay be mounted to the anchoron the underside of the pier. In, a perspective close-up view of the actuatoris rendered, highlighting the actuatoras it is affixed to the aquatic stairsfrombelow the support structure, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

presents a perspective isolated view of actuatoras it is affixed to anchor, pursuant to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This depiction isolates actuator, allowing for an unobstructed examination of its structure and the manner in which it is mounted to anchor. This view is instrumental in conveying the relationship between actuator, the anchor, the first actuator pivot bracket, the second actuator pivot bracket, the actuator-stair bracket, and the power-stairs bracketfor pivotably moving the staircase. The isolated perspective of actuatorclarifies the design elements that contribute to the robust and effective operation of the aquatic stairs.

depicts a perspective view of the second actuator pivot bracketand the actuator-stair bracket, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The second actuator pivot bracketis configured to integrate with the actuator-stair bracketand further configured to providing a pivotable point for an end of the actuatorfor the operation of the aquatic stairs.

Now referring to.shows a schematic front view of aquatic stairsin an access orientation, pursuant to an embodiment of the present disclosure.illustrates a schematic front view of power-stair bracket, aligned with an embodiment of the present disclosure.illustrates a schematic rear view of aquatic stairsin the access orientation is illustrated, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The rear view provides an insight into the structural arrangement and the relative positions of the various elements when aquatic stairsare set for access to afford safe and efficient passage to users. The positioning of the power-stair bracketis illustrated showing the position of the actuatorrelative to the support structure. These views illustrate the secure attachment and position of the actuatorto the support structure.

Lastly,is a perspective top view of support structureand aquatic stairsin a lifted orientation, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. This vantage point illustrates the positioning of aquatic stairswhen elevated, revealing the interaction between the support structure, actuator, staircaseand other related mechanisms.

In operation, the present disclosure may find applicability in various waterfront settings including, but not limited to, residential docks, commercial marinas, waterfront properties, and public access points to bodies of water. Specifically, the systems, apparatuses, and methods of the present disclosure may be utilized for adjusting aquatic staircases for access between aquatic and terrestrial environments, including, but not limited to, boat launches, swimming platforms, waterfront gangways, and similar structures facilitating water access. While the foregoing detailed description is made with specific reference to aquatic stairs, it is to be understood that its teachings may also be applied to other water access structures such as riverbank stairs, boat docks, and the like. The aquatic stair systemmay be provided as a retrofit or an integral part of new installations in these various applications that require adaptable access to water.

Referring now to, a flow-chart outlines a methodfor adjusting the position of the staircaserelative to the water line, according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The methodprovides an approach for transitioning the staircasebetween its various orientations, thereby facilitating seamless access in aquatic environments near lakes, rivers, streams, and the like.

The methodcommences with a step, where the aquatic stairsare provided with a pivotal mounting mechanism at the first end, incorporating a hinge mechanismto securely attach to the support structure. This provides pivotable movement of the aquatic stairs, ensuring a stable yet adjustable connection to the waterfront infrastructure. Simultaneously, the actuatoris mounted onto the anchorproviding a mechanical connection between the actuatorand the aquatic stairsconfigured for maneuvering the staircase.

In step, the methodbegins with the activation of the actuatorconnected to the staircase. This activation, via the control unit, is the initial trigger that sets the entire adjustment process in motion, utilizing the actuator's capability to extend and retract, which directly influences the positioning of the staircase.

Proceeding to step, the staircaseundergoes a pivoting action facilitated by a hinge mechanism. In step, the staircaseis enabled to pivot relative to the support structure, adjusting its angle and orientation in a controlled manner. The hinge mechanism's design ensures smooth and stable pivoting, essential for the seamless operation of the staircase.

In the final step, the actuator's operation is controlled based on the desired orientation of the staircase. This control is achieved through a combination of manual inputs, sensor feedback, and pre-determined settings within the control unit. The movement of the actuatoris fine-tuned to achieve the precise positioning of the staircase, whether it is being elevated above the water linefor safety and maintenance, lowered to provide access to the water or a boat, or oriented in any position between fully lifted and fully submerged.

The methodprovides effective procedure for adjusting aquatic staircases, ensuring their functionality and reliability in providing access between aquatic and terrestrial environments. This methodhighlights the integrated use of mechanical and control systems to achieve adaptable and user-oriented operation of aquatic staircases in various waterfront settings.

The aquatic stairs, as disclosed herein, are ingeniously designed to ensure adaptability to a wide range of environmental conditions, encompassing both freshwater and saltwater environments. This adaptability is achieved through the thoughtful selection of materials and the incorporation of design features that safeguard the stairs against the deleterious effects of weathering, UV damage, and temperature extremes. For instance, the staircaseand support structureare fabricated from materials known for their corrosion resistance and durability in aquatic settings. Additionally, the hinge mechanismand actuatorare engineered to maintain functional integrity and resist degradation, even when continuously subjected to the marine elements. This construction ensures that the aquatic stairsremain a reliable access solution, irrespective of the environmental challenges posed by their installation site.